J for Juxtaposition

with Food52

Photo Credit: Mark Weinberg

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"Entertaining is a multi-faceted undertaking. By
juxtaposing complementary textures, flavors and visual elements,
you’ll create a memorable evening for your guests that appeals to all
of their senses."

Take this dinner party menu: Lamb stew with red wine, roasted
mushrooms and mashed potatoes, and chocolate sorbet for dessert.
Sounds pretty great, right? Now think about how drab and depressing
your guests’ plates are going to look piled with all that brown, mushy
food. There’s no pop of color, nothing that crunches, no bright hit of
citrus or bracing heat of chili to break up the monotony. You’re going
to go to a lot of trouble to cook a lovely meal, and your guests might
end up bored.

When you’re putting together a menu for a party, try to pay as much
attention to color and texture as you do to taste. Chop up a gremolata
with parsley and lemon zest to scatter over that hearty stew. Toast
coarse breadcrumbs in olive oil and garlic and toss them with your
roasted mushrooms Brussels sprouts. Add a crisp slaw of cabbage, herbs
and a citrus vinaigrette to the mix, which will cut through some of
the richness of the other dishes. Serve Stella Artois that you’ve
refrigerated or put on ice well before the party begins.

In summer, the possibilities are virtually endless with all the
fresh produce in the markets, most of which can be served raw or
cooked. The world is your oyster, and the greater the diversity of the
elements that make up the meal, the more satisfying it will be.

The same rules apply to your table setting. If the food you’re
serving seems neutral, consider something dramatic or colorful as a
centerpiece: a low flower arrangement or mismatched vintage brass
candlesticks paired with greenery.

Don’t forget that entertaining is a multi-faceted undertaking. By
juxtaposing complementary textures, flavors and visual elements,
you’ll create a memorable evening for your guests that appeals to all
of their senses. Light a (subtly) scented candle in the bathroom, and
if you have the time, why not send your friends home with a memento? A
little bag of spiced nuts or a Stella Artois chalice will remind them
how great the party was long after it has ended.

FOOD52 is the leading content and commerce destination for home
cooks, where people can find everything from recipes and exclusive
tableware to inspiration and information. With an approachable food
philosophy and a distinguished aesthetic, Food52 has amassed an active
community of more than 715,000 members and 4.5+ million monthly
visitors. The company, which has won the James Beard Award for best
food publication, is headquartered in New York City.

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